Effectiveness of Kinesio taping without physical therapy for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Abstract

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common musculoskeletal disorder causing pain and stiffness. Kinesio tape (KT) is a flexible tape used for various musculoskeletal conditions, including KOA. This study systematically evaluates the effectiveness of KT without conventional physical therapy for KOA. A comprehensive search was conducted through PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to March 2025 for randomized trials evaluating KT without physical therapy for KOA (Prospero: CRD42024615432). The risk of bias was assessed using the ROB-2 tool, and the data analysis was conducted using Review Manager V5.4. A total of 16 randomized trials were included. KT significantly reduced the post-treatment pain at rest (MD: -0.75, 95% CI: -1.15, -0.34) and during movement (MD: -0.92, 95% CI: -1.65, -0.20) compared to sham KT. However, KT did not demonstrate a significant effect on long-term pain reduction. Additionally, KT significantly improved the WOMAC total score (MD: -0.60, 95% CI: -1.19, -0.01) and increased knee flexion range of motion (FROM) (MD: 6.04, 95% CI: 3.13, 8.96). However, KT showed no significant effect on knee extension range of motion (MD: -0.23, 95% CI: -1.70, 1.25). No risk of publication bias observed. KT reduces pain, improves function, and enhances knee FROM in KOA patients even without physical therapy. However, its long-term effects remain uncertain. Future studies should evaluate the long-term application of KT and its integration with other KOA management strategies. Prospero ID CRD42024615432.